The statistics are staggering. In 2012 alone 16.6 million U.S. residents were victims of identity theft (per Bureau of Justice report). Every day we hear news stories about secure data being stolen. Just this last week, it was announced that the FBI was investigating fraudulent tax returns being filed through Turbo Tax.
Now, more than ever, we are hearing from clients who have fallen victim to identity theft. In the last week alone, we have had clients reach out to us saying they have received emails and phone calls supposedly from the IRS noting that there are problems with their returns. These phone calls and emails are not valid and should not be returned. Any attachments to the emails should be deleted immediately and not opened.
If you believe you have been the victim of identity theft or if you are concerned about any correspondence received from the IRS, please contact us immediately. We can help you with any correspondence you have received and determine whether it is legitimate. If your identity has been compromised or stolen, we will assist you in obtaining an Identity Protection Pin from the IRS. Once issued to you, this pin securely identifies you to the IRS and no one else can file under your social security number.